One summer, two windows - the current transfer market explained

In a season unlike any other, it’s no surprise that the 2020/21 summer transfer window is also taking on a slightly different look.

Instead of the traditional deadline day, there will now be TWO cut-off points for transfers - meaning Sunderland and their rivals may need to act quickly to complete certain deals.

We take a look at the two deadlines facing the Black Cats in detail…

Whatarethetwotransfer windows and why are their twodeadlinedaysin2020/21?

There will be two transfer windows facing Sunderland this summer. They are:

- The international transfer window

- The domestic transfer window

These dates were introduced to ensure that English football remained in tandem with the rest of Europe, while also giving clubs a chance to continue adding to their squad after a tumultuous few months.

Whendoesthe2020/21internationaltransferwindow close?

The 2020/21 international transfer window will close on Monday, October 5.

All signings must be completed by 11pm.

What business will clubs

have to conclude by October 5?

Any transfers involving overseas clubs - whose windows are also set to close on October 5 - will have to be concluded by this date.

Premier League clubs trading among themselves will also have to wrap up their deals by this point.

When does the 2020/21 domestic transfer window close?

The second, domestic transfer deadline comes on October 16.

This time there is a slightly earlier cut-off point of 5pm.

From the end of the international window on October 5 until October 16, EFL clubs can sign players from the Premier League and vice-versa.

EFL clubs will also be able to trade among themselves, but Premier League sides will not.

Yes. Players can still depart clubs after October 16 - providing the window of the buying club remains open.

S o hy p oth et i c a l l y, th at means that Sunderland could get some extra time to find a new club for the likes of Aiden McGeady if no offers are forthcoming by October 16.